For instance, the Nest thermostat "learns" your temperature patterns and adjusts how cool or warm you want your house by itself. The easy-to-install unit runs about $250 and can save you quite a bit of money.
(www.nest.com)

There's also a new platform in the beginning stages that will some day automate your entire home. It's called SmartThings and it "places the world of connected things at your fingertips." While SmartThings is sold out, you can reserve a unit online.
(www.smartthings.com)

The best part about all of these gadgets, according to Colburn, is that you don't have to be a tech geek to understand and operate them.